Hand to Hold's official blog
Most people view eating as a simple task that occurs automatically. Unfortunately, for many premature babies, the trauma of their birth and medical procedures during infancy can lead to severe feeding problems as they get older. A basic parenting task is nourishing one’s child, so if he/she can’t or won’t eat, mealtime can become an [...]
In honor of March as Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, Dr. Mary Elizabeth Parker, a pediatric physical therapist & professor of pediatric physical therapy, was our guest at the March 21, 2013, Facebook Chat discussing Cerebral Palsy, a common diagnosis for newborns who have spent time in the NICU. [Read more]
My seven year old son has cerebral palsy. Along our journey, we have encountered a variety of methods and practices that have helped him get to where he is today. I learned quickly that my greatest resource in searching out alternative methods and treatment was always other parents. Here is our quick reference guide for [...]
Special needs and NICU parent Marty Barnes gives us an overview of cerebral palsy in all of its unique forms from a mom’s point of view. Though an initial diagnosis of CP can feel like the end of the world, there are many treatment options and ways for children with CP to live very full lives. [Read more]
When I was 17 weeks pregnant, my doctor asked if I would like to have a blood test done to screen for possible neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities like spina bifida and Down’s Syndrome. Since my husband and I had talked about screenings prior to pregnancy, we decided to go ahead with it. Some [...]
I like to start any discussion of childcare by pointing out that I firmly believe that child care encompasses far more than routine care. Far beyond dressing, diaper changing, and feeding, the childcare you choose not only stands to significantly shape your child’s earliest learning experiences, but will also be important for her overall health [...]
Milestones, standardized tests, and growth charts quickly become a nightmare for parents/caregivers of a preemie or medically involved child. Instead of being things to look forward to they are constant reminders of what your child is NOT doing. I think the first year is by far the worst. There are so many milestones!! Being a [...]
I recently had to come to terms with the fact that my 24-week preemie will no longer be able to continue with the same therapy regimen he’s followed for the last three years, since coming home from a five-month NICU stint. We’ve relied heavily on therapy, from Early Childhood Intervention before Bryce turned three, as [...]
Neonatologist and Author Sue Hall, MD shares how gathering information about your baby will help you cope during a baby’s hospitalization in the NICU. She encourages parents who want to pay it forward to participate in Hand to Hold’s For the Love of Babies Campaign which is raising awareness and funding to provide more education to NICUs and to parents after a NICU stay. [Read more]
Colostomy care. Not exactly covered in any parenting class. My son Caleb was born with VACTERL and required a colostomy at two days old. He had his reversal at nine months old. These are the tips and tricks I learned about colostomy care and bag changes. Always discuss any change to your recommended or prescribed [...]
Hand to Hold is a nonprofit 501(c)3 parent support organization and information and resources provided here do not intend to take the place of the relationship between a patient and personal physician.